Emil concentrates and places a hand next to his mouth and hums a short musical phrase. A burst of sound erupts in the area between Emil and the archer, making a sound like cats fighting inside a bagpipe.
Baralbus, Fort save:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13
Woman (red), Fort save:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10
Both villains suffer from the song.
Alenor spies Baralbus.
He is now observed by Alenor.
Need to run some kids to activities. Will post bad guys when I get back.
I'm confused why Baralbus was hidden rather than undetected. He went invisible and could have moved, so that would seem to qualify as undetected, since we cannot see him and we only know the square he was in when he went invisible and he could have moved from that spot.
Also I don't see anything in the discussion thread about this.
I know I wrote a post, but I must have mis-clicked or some such as it appears to have been eaten by the forums. I will do by best to explain.
Having been knocked prone, Baralbus retrieved a potion of invisibility and used it. 2 Interact actions
Once he used the potion, he became invisible. Usually, an invisible creature is undetected. However, there is an exception which applies here: "If you're already observing a creature when it becomes invisible, it starts out hidden, since you know where it was, though it can then Sneak to become undetected."
So, although Baralbus turned invisible, since he was being observed at the time, he became hidden.
Unfortunately for poor Baralbus, he could not take a Sneak action to become undetected because he was prone. The Sneak action has the Move trait and, since he was prone, the only actions with the Move trait that he could take were stand or crawl. He stood. Therefore, he remains hidden for the moment.
The Point Out action requires the indicated creature be undetected, so it cannot be used here.
This is how I reached my conclusions about the proper conditions. I am open to correction/discussion if there is a flaw in my reasoning.
Redmond spots Baralbus' form.
I know I referenced the Point Out action earlier, but since Baralbus needs to be undetected for it to be used and as he is currently only hidden to the rest of the party (per Discussion thread), I have moved Redmond per Stride. Per the admittedly unusual position of the compass, Modra is occupying "the square west of Father Emil". I have instead moved Redmond to the square south of Father Emil, which I suspect was where the token was intended to be placed.
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Two Cont'd/Round Three Begins!
PCs in bold may act
Redmond -2 HP
Alenor
Modra -4 HP
Magnus (shield) Round Three Father Emil -5 HP
Baralbus (blurred, hidden [observed by Magnus & Redmond]) -8 HP
Woman (red) -11 HP
Ma'elo smoothly moves forward and takes the papers and, sneakily the book, as he looks back to Beezhul. "I have told you many times," he says seriously. "These are important papers that cannot be lost. I will hold on to them from now on." He then turns to leave, "Come, the day is nearing end and there is a curfew."\
Just shy of the required DC 20.
As Ma'elo heads out the door, he is stopped by one of the guards. "What is that you have there, then?" The guardsman asks, seizing the small, black book. "Trying to make off with something that is not yours, eh?"
As the guard waves the black book threateningly, Captain Kallade rises to her feet. "Hand me the book." She instructs. "Then, allow them to pass. Clearly, these recruits have a bit more to learn about following instructions. But, it is nothing that won't be quickly corrected after a few days of basic training."
"Go," she instructs the "recruits". "Enjoy your last couple of nights as civilians. Then, be sure to report for duty."
The two guards at the door respond with a hardy laugh as the one returns the book to the captain and the other shows the party out the door.
"By Torag's forge!" he cries out with pride as he swings again. After his attack, he once again raises shield to defend against things that might come out of the shadows.
Repositioning Modra's token on Map and directing attack against Baralbus per explanation in Discussion thread.
Modra, Flat check v. hidden:1d20 ⇒ 7
His hammer misses the miscreant!
Magnus' missile misses the maiden. He readily spots Baralbus.
Baralbus is observed as to Magnus only. Unfortunately, he does not have the actions remaining necessary to Point Out.
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Two Cont'd/Round Three Begins!
PCs in bold may act
Redmond -2 HP
Alenor
Modra -4 HP
Magnus (shield) Round Three Father Emil -5 HP
Baralbus (blurred, hidden [observed by Magnus]) -8 HP
Woman (red) -11 HP
then swings his hammer at the woman who shot him with an arrow before putting his shield back in a defensive position.
The powerful blow nearly brings the woman to her knees.
Modra Boeske wrote:
If so, Modra is at 19/23 and his shield is 16/20.
I am fine with this.
Redmond_220629 wrote:
Sorry, when did Redmond take damage?
He did not. That was meant for Father Emil. Error corrected.
Redmond_220629 wrote:
Redmond draws his shortbow as he follows Modra into the maze of crates, then fires an arrow at Baralbus without hesitation when the bureaucrat shows himself.
Redmond, Flat check v. blur:1d20 ⇒ 13
An arrow strikes the blurry bureaucrat.
Father Emil 2E wrote:
Unable to get a clear sweep that hurts the villain, Emil tries to slip the blade of the scythe behind his boot and trip him with it.
Redmond, Flat check v. blur:1d20 ⇒ 6
Baralbus falls to the ground.
Enraged at the indignity, he retrieves a potion from his belt, drinks it, and then disappears!.
Interact x2/???
One of the women (yellow) makes a run for it and Tockit follows.
No post from Tockitt or the player since December without explanation. I hope all is well, but I am removing them from combat, which reduces the challenge points and removes one of the opponents.
The last visible foe (red) moves away from the oncoming Pathfinders, then fires two more shots toward Father Emil.
Stride; Strike x2 Woman (red), Ranged Strike (shortbow) v Father Emil:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21 Damage 1d6 piercing:1d6 ⇒ 4 Woman (red), Ranged Strike (shortbow) v Father Emil:1d20 + 8 - 5 ⇒ (3) + 8 - 5 = 6 Damage 1d6 piercing:1d6 ⇒ 2
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Two Cont'd/Round Three Begins!
PCs in bold may act
Redmond -2 HP
Alenor
Modra -4 HP
Tockit Magus(shield) Round Three Father Emil -8 HP
Baralbus (blurred, invisible, prone?) -8 HP
Woman (red) -11 HP
Woman (yellow)
"I knew that Themolin was up to something--something that will undoubtedly get me promoted." Baralbus declares. "I had expected to extract what I needed from the old man himself, but I suspect you may provide me with something of value just as well."
He stops for a moment and begins to cast a spell, which causes his form to become blurry. Cast
"Finish them off!" He instructs the woman with the bow. "We only need one or two for interrogation."
In response, the woman (red) fires her bow at Modra
Striked; Stride; Strike Woman (red), Ranged Strike (shortbow) v Modra (off-guard):1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25 Damage 1d6 piercing + precision:1d6 + 1d4 ⇒ (6) + (3) = 9
She then moves quickly to take up a position behind some crates, where she is able to get a clear shot on Father Emil!
Woman (red), Ranged Strike (shortbow) v Father Emil:1d20 + 8 - 5 ⇒ (20) + 8 - 5 = 23 Damage 1d6 piercing:1d6 ⇒ 1
Another woman (yellow) emerges from behind some crates, her bow already drawn. Stride
She, too, takes a shot at Modra, then takes up a defensive position.
Strike; Stride Woman (yellow), Ranged Strike (shortbow) v Modra (off-guard):1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15 Damage 1d6 piercing + precision:1d6 + 1d4 ⇒ (5) + (4) = 9
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round One Cont'd/Round Two Begins!
PCs in bold may act
Redmond -2 HP
Alenor
Modra -9 HP
Tockit
Magus Round Two Father Emil
Baralbus (blurred)
Woman (red)
Woman (yellow)
Ma'elo smoothly moves forward and takes the papers and, sneakily the book, as he looks back to Beezhul. "I have told you many times," he says seriously. "These are important papers that cannot be lost. I will hold on to them from now on." He then turns to leave, "Come, the day is nearing end and there is a curfew."
Was anyone planning to Aid before I resolve the Stealth check?
He frowns at the ink, wondering if it might be part of a trap or security mechanism of some sort. Would underworld lore (+3) be useful to understand the purpose of the ink?
I am going to say no, but another skill would.
Secret Check to Recall Knowledge:
Redmond, Thievery:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25
Redmond concludes that the ink smudges follow the same direction as some scratches on the lock, suggesting that they were most likely left haphazardly by someone with ink on their fingers, hastily picking the lock.
Modra Boeske wrote:
Do we need to put a two-hour block of time into sending her a message that she will need to join us at the inn before curfew tonight if she wants to leave tomorrow morning?
Pathfinders are skilled agents. I am inclined not to get bogged down with such details and presume that, during their interactions with the various NPCs, the party provided each of the NPCs with the necessary details regarding time and place of their next meeting (or ways for discreet contact to convey such details at a later time).
Emil notices nothing more outside of the ordinary on the outside of the warehouse.
Assuming the party wishes to proceed inside, please indicate which door the party plans to enter. Door 2, which leads into the warehouse to the north, is locked. If you wish to disable the lock, please roll Thievery checks. Alternatively, there are two doors that access the warehouse from inside the courtyard, which I have now marked as Doors A & B on the map on Slides.If you prefer to try one of those for entry, please so indicate.
"It's great to meet you Captain Kallade!" He says respectfully. "We are indeed not native to Xin-Edasseril and were made aware of this opportunity by a "Garrla". Would it be possible to speak to them?"
"My, you are an eager one." Captain Kallade says in response to the forward elf. "As for someone by the name 'Garrla', I can't say that is one that I have heard. Sounds made up, if you were to ask me. Still, I suppose it doesn't matter who it was that gave you message that sent you here, right? The important thing is that you got the message, that you are here, and that may yet well be just the recruits that I've been waiting for."
She reaches into her cloak and produces a small, black book. She then places on the des before locking eyes with Ka'elen. "You know, you remind me of one of my fellow guardsman." she notes. "His name is Ellvard. Interestingly enough, he is scheduled to work at the docks a couple of days from now. The same day, in fact, that these travel papers are set to expire."
She spreads Beezhul's travel papers across her desk, covering up the black book. She then makes a point of gathering them and the small book together before offering them all back to the party.
"I think recruitment is done for the day." She announces loudly enough to notify the guards outside. She glances down at the gathered bundle of papers offered back to the party and then casts her eyes toward the guards posted at the door.
"I hope you have what takes." She adds.
The party is free to depart. If one PC so wishes, they may attempt to leave with the small black book. If that PC wishes to do so without the guards noticing, that PC may attempt a Stealth check to Conceal an Object.
Beezhul accidentally finds herself at the front of the line, and panics!
(Unless one of her compatriots bumps her out...)
The line moves forward with surprising speed, such at the Beezhul is surprised to find herself and her fellow Pathfinders as the only beings remaining in the recruitment line.
Looking up from her desk, Captain Kallade gives the kholo a stern look as she eyes up Beezhul before looking down at the papers on her desk.
"I am Captain Astrid Kallade of the Emerald Guard," she begins."You look as though you may have some experience and your armor seems to be kept well enough. I suspect, however, that you have designs on something more."
“Well, if you are hoping to have this armor someday--and if you have what it takes--then it can be yours for the taking. You just need to decide what you are willing to do to take it. I didn't rise to my current rank by accident, you know. I made sure that I seized the right opportunities whenever they were presented. I was certain to act at just the right time and at just the right place."
She pauses for a moment and leans across the desk looking for some sign of comprehension from the kholo before her. "But enough about me. What about you? Can you be counted upon, if called, to act at the right time and the right place?"
Then, sliding back down into her chair, Captain Kallade reaches among the papers on the desk and pulls out a recruitment form. "Now, it seems to me that you are most likely not a native to Xin-Edasseril. Do you have a set of proper travel papers with you?"
Captain Kallade punctuates her question to Beezhul by holding out her hand, expectantly.
As the party enters the line, they can see past those ahead of them into the recruitment area. There the guardswoman has taken a seat.
"I am Captain Kallade." she declares. Her dark hair frames a pair of deep green eyes framed by dark tresses."Remain in line and I will deal with each of you potential recruits in an orderly fashion. I wish to be efficient, so those of you with questions should remain at the back of the line."
After giving the instruction to those in the recruitment line, she holds out her hand, ready to receive documentation from those at the front of the line.
Looks like that is two votes to proceed to the warehouse, so...
The party sets out to find a warehouse matching the description of that described by to Redmond. After two hours searching for a couple of hours, the party believes it has located the structure while heading eastward along a main road in Envy Row East. The well-maintained building readily stands out from the dilapidated housing that surrounds it.
The main road continues east of the party's current position and leads to a small man-gate that abuts the street and leads into a work yard where the main entrances of the warehouses lie. Indications of a larger, loading gate along the south of the property can also be seen. A nearby alley branches off from the main road and runs along the northern edge of the property. There are indications that a small man-door exits into the alley from the warehouse.
The warehouse stands about 30 feet tall. There are no windows.
"Sure," Ma'elo shrugs absently as he watches after the woman.
Ma'elo concludes that the guardswoman is not simply trying to recruit members of the party, but does she want you to follow her to the recruitment area.
Once to the campus of the Emerald Guardhouse, you set eyes upon a wide building supported by columns carved in the likeness of the Runelord Belimarius. A wide courtyard is filled with practice dummies and other evidence of martial training. This is a flurry of activity around you.
Guards equipped with gleaming magical weapons, equipment, and armor tinged in now familiar green accent come and go as they begin and end their shifts. Returning patrols of several guards arrive at the edge of the courtyard before breaking up into pairs or individuals, even as other single guards each head toward a single gate to meet up to relieve their fellows at checkpoints throughout the city.
Near the middle of the courtyard, a trio of instructors put small groups through the paces of training. Two shout at individuals as they navigate an obstacle course as another barks orders at two lines of novice guards facing each other with mock weapons.
Along the building itself stands a short line that has formed outside the door of a recruiting area. The line extends into the courtyard from a single door where one of the well-equipped guards stands at his station.
Suddenly, Beezhul is bumped by one of the Emerald Guard. The guardswoman, having just rushed out the door of a nearby building alone, appears to be in a hurry.
The guardswoman brushes a few stray hairs from her otherwise pristine uniform, then nods to the kholo. “It is a good time for recruiting.” She states, before gesturing over toward the line at the recruiting area.
Her composure seemingly gathered, the guardswoman, then proceeds now with less speed and more caution towards the line of recruits. Heading towards the front of line, she is saluted by the two guards before moving past them and through the entry door into the recruitment building.
Any PC who wishes may attempt a Perception check to Seek. This is an open check.
Perception (DC 15):
You spot a crumbled piece of paper on the ground that was not their previously, presumably dropped by the guardswoman.
If you pick it up and open it, you may reveal the spoiler below:
Spoiler:
The paper reads, “Ready to join.”
Any PC who wishes may attempt a Perception check to Sense Motive of the guardswoman by listing their modifier. This is a secret check.
As the party spends two hours asking around, Father Emil does not learn anything.
Both Modra and Alenor learn that Themolin frequents Sweetest Dreams.
Redmond is told that Themolin recently sold his personal residence. Other than the Ministry, the only place where Themolin has reportedly been seen is near a warehouse located in Envy Row West.
My wife has been traveling internationally since the weekend. Between work and kids, I have had limited time to post. Still, I think it would be a good idea for the party to come to some sort of consensus as to what to do next to keep the table moving.
But what else was there to do? he thinks to himself. And what's got him spooked?
I'd like to take a Perception (+5) to get a sense of what is going on with this guy beyond the already suspected conversational triggers.
Based on his observations of Themolin combined with what he has been told about the bureaucraft, Modra concludes that the discovery of an accounting error has reduced Themolin to a nervous wreck, likely living in constant fear that the error will be discovered and cost him his life. He was likely somewhat relieved when he learned of Guaril’s offer to get him out of the city. However, when he lost contact with Guaril, Themolin’s anxiety and fears became amplied.
Clearly, Themolin refuses to openly discuss anything related to Guaril, the smuggling plans, or his desire for freedom and, when asked, he obviously has been denying all knowledge of such things.
Modra concludes that approaching Themolin at a different location, one less connected to the sources of his anxiety, may be a more suitable approach.
If the PCs wish, they may spend two hours to try and Gather Information to learn about Themolin's whereabouts when he is not at the Ministry of Tithes. If so, please provide relevant modifier in your posts as this is a secret check.
Redmond stands by, waiting to see how Themolin responds to blunt honesty before taking any actions of his own.
Not well.
It seems the mention of Guaril's name exacerbated Themolin's nervous scratching and stammering. As Modra speaks plainly, beads of sweat begin to form on the bureaucrat's forehead.
Magnus Whizzbang wrote:
We offer a stable vector of departure that bypasses the standard, and frankly stifling, Ministry protocols. Shall we proceed with the formalization of this arrangement, or do you prefer to remain submerged in this sea of precarious parchment?"
As Magnus speaks, Themolin continues to look around with concern. "Th-th-is s-sea of p-parchm-ment is m-my w-workplace. I-I s-serve the R-r-r-r-unel-l-lord quite w-w-well, thank you. Wh-why would I h-have any d-desire t-to l-leave?"
He forces a smile. "N-now as it s-seems we h-have no f-further b-business, I s-suggest that you g-g-go on your w-way."
All may not be lost, but this direct approach at the Ministry of Tithes is clearly not going to get Themolin to come along willingly or to turn over his payment.
It is up to the players how they wish to proceed. Splitting the party is often a risk, but this adventure is a little more flexible than others when it comes to accommodating split parties.
Ma'elo strokes his chin, "It might be best for him to stay here, hidden. We can come back when the way is ready."
Themolin nods eagerly in agreement. "I w-will stay h-here until y-you are r-ready to g-get me out of h-here."
With the business at the warehouse concluded, the party departs for the Emerald Guardhouse. It is a relatively short jaunt from the Envy Row East to the Emerald Guardhouse, but the checkpoints are thick with traffic this time day in particular as many foreigners are already trying to get across the city before the chiming of second bell.
Once to the campus of the Emerald Guardhouse, you set eyes upon a wide building supported by columns carved in the likeness of the Runelord Belimarius. A wide courtyard is filled with practice dummies and other evidence of martial training. This is a flurry of activity around you.
Guards equipped with gleaming magical weapons, equipment, and armor tinged in now familiar green accent come and go as they begin and end their shifts. Returning patrols of several guards arrive at the edge of the courtyard before breaking up into pairs or individuals, even as other single guards each head toward a single gate to meet up to relieve their fellows at checkpoints throughout the city.
Near the middle of the courtyard, a trio of instructors put small groups through the paces of training. Two shout at individuals as they navigate an obstacle course as another barks orders at two lines of novice guards facing each other with mock weapons.
Along the building itself stands a short line that has formed outside the door of a recruiting area. The line extends into the courtyard from a single door where one of the well-equipped guards stands at his station.
Good gravy, that was a set of rolls, all right. I am wondering about the hero point question at the end seeming to be directed at all of us. Can we use our own HP for the GM to reroll the botted roll? (I'm assuming that the botted player's HP can't be taken without their consent.) If someone else's can be used, take mine. I'll respond in character if it becomes clear that no HP is coming along to change the above.
I will not use a player's Hero Point while botting. Also, players cannot assign Hero Points to other players.
Redmond_220629 wrote:
Redmond has no hero points left, sorry...
According to the tracker on Slideseach PC still has a Hero Point. I rely on the players to keep trakc of such resources. As Redmond pointed out that he has no Hero Points and since we are over halfway through the adventure, I will award one Hero Point to Redmond and another to one player without any (or, if none, to one that I will choose at random.
Father Emil 2E wrote:
Emil sighs. He struggles to imagine the level of fear the bureaucrat must live with. "If we must go we will, but I would point out that there is another matter involving payment to a Mr. ...". Emil pauses and pulls a small note book from his pouch as if checking a detail, and then proceeds, "a Mr. Guaril. Seems there is payment due before some important services are rendered. We came to try to facilitate that matter, but if you'd rather we come back, we can. But this matter must be cleared up in the next 24 hours."
"A M-m-m-mister G-g-guaril, d-d-did you s-s-say?" Themolin responds even more nervous than before. "I-I-I m-m-must insist th-that I h-h-have n-n-n-no id-dea who th-that is."
I will wait to see who spends/needs a Hero Point before proceeding further.
”Where should we stash them?” indicating the bodies of the killed ambushers.
"I h-haven't had any v-vistors to this w-warehouse since I b-bought it." Themolin notes. "At l-least, n-not until t-today."
"Otherw-wise, it has b-been quite pr-rivate." He adds. "I s-sold my-my home in anticipation of d-departure. When th-then plan f-fell through, I began sl-sleeping h-here in the warehouse until I c-could purchase a n-new home or escape."
Off to the Emerald Guardhouse? Or does the party have other plans?
"Heard ye might be lookin' ta see some sights 'round Golarion."
"Wh-ho t-told you th-that?" Themolin stutters nervously.
Alenor Holt wrote:
Alenor steps in just as Modra’s words hang in the air, “Director Thelomin,” she says evenly, offering a polite nod rather than a bow, “We’re travelers with an unusual opportunity, and we were told you might appreciate discretion as much as efficiency.”
Her eyes flick—briefly, deliberately—to the stacks of paperwork, then back to Thelomin’s face. “We’re hoping to understand what arrangements might be possible, and what formalities would matter most to your office.” She lets the implication sit, measured and professional, giving him space to respond without pressure.
Alenor's Diplomacy +4. Apologies for the radio silence, been busy
I suppose we have waited long enough, so I will bot Magnus.
Father Emil, Diplomacy to Aid:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 3 = 10 Alenor, Diplomacy to Aid:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
As some offer assistance, they are largely ignored by Themolin. The Director is clearly upset by the current set of questioning.
Magnus steps forward and tries to calm the man by providing some assurance.
Magnus, Diplomacy to Make an Impression:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9
Themolin is unswayed. "Th-there are n-no needs for any arrangements, h-here." He insists. "Th-this office is already qu-quite eff-fficient, I-I assure y-you."
"P-perhaps, y-you tr-travelers should b-be on your w-way." He adds, making a line quickly back to the seat at his desk. "Th-there is m-much to s-see in Xin-Ed-Edasseril. The R-Runelord h-has m-made a m-most m-magnificent c-city for us all t-to l-live in."
Beezhul interrogates Themolin, not liking him much - chastizing him first.
"You almost compromised the entire mission, which involves others, not just you" stern look, then questions "Baralbus - was he alone in his suspicion? How will you cover your tracks so as not to repeatedly endanger our rescue mission? Will that woman at the office follow your trail?"
Themolin cowers as the kholo rebukes him, closing his eyes and putting his arms up in a defensive posture. "I-I d-don't know what h-he knew or who-ho he t-told. Y-you've w-would have to ask h-him." He pauses to spy the gruesome remains of Baralbus, then closes his eyes again.
"Pl-please, if you are h-here to g-get me out of the c-city, th-then I am r-ready to go! N-n-n-now!" The nervous bureaucrat explains. "I-I w-wish I had n-never n-noitced that accounting err nervous wreck since discovering an accounting err-error l-last m-month. Ever s-since then, I h-have been l-living in c-constant fear that the w-will be discovered and the R-Runelo w-will p-punish me. I w-was r-erelieved when I l-learned of the off-offer to get me out of the c-city, b-but h-have been so sc-scarred since G-Guaril d-disappeared."
"Pl-please, t-take me. I c-can p-p-pay! S-search the w-warehouse and you w-will f-find pl-plenty of art--m-m-masterpieces that y-you c-can have! J-just g-get me out of th-this n-nation!" Themolin begs.
Na'ilath firmly fells the final foe with fatal flair!
COMBAT OVER
Bound and gagged, Themolin tries to close his eyes to avert the gruesome scene.
If you remove the gag from Themolin:
The portly man exhales and inhales repeated, before saying. "Th-thank y-you for the fr-freeing me. " He looks around at dying and staining blood, then adds, "Th-though, p-perhaps you could h-have been m-more n-neat about it."
As he pauses to catch his breath and realize that he is not in immediate danger, Themolin continues in a more composed manner of speech. "B-Baralbus captured me. H-He had w-waited for me here in am-ambush. H-He said that he h-has been s-suspicious of my behavior for the past s-several days. H-he wanted to kn-now what I was up to. I th-think he b-believed I was involved in some sc-scandal or s-something that he hoped would advance h-his career at the M-Ministry."
If you search the remains of Baralbus and the women:
You find that Baralbus had a crossbow, a staff, a spellbook, an inkwell, and a vial marked, "invisibility potion". Each of the women had a rapier and a shortbow.
Together all these items are worth 1 Treasure Bundle.
If you search the warehouse:
You find that most of the crates contain old financial documents and outdated almanacs. A few, however, house a collection of artwork.
These collectively represent 2 Treasure Bundles.
"You know, Yuleg, Flitch really looks up to you," he lies.
"With a fresh start and a good mentor, he could make something of himself. We're giving him the fresh start. You'd be a good mentor."
"That may be, but even a good mentor can't teach an incapable student." Yuleg grumbles in reply. "Besides, teaching a man may be one thing. Having him court your daughter is another. I know my daughter can do better than that one. I've met rocks with more wits and more couth."
Redmond_220629 wrote:
At the Ministry:
Redmond stands just off to the side, making a show of counting his coins while following Father Emil's example and keeping an eye out for evesdroppers or others acting suspiciously.
As the pair look around the desk area, neither spots any likely eavesdroppers. However, the eye of Father Emil does catch sight of an item of interest among the objects on Themolin’s desk. It is an affidavit of sale bearing execute by someone named Ellvard, which states that that the affiant is a member of the Emerald Guard.
As those who have posted are waiting for others to engage Themolin in conversation, I will pause here to allow some more time for the same.
Ma'elo skewers his target (green) with his first strike, dropping her instantly.
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Three Cont'd!
PCs in bold may act
Eladithas of Wolfpoint Ma'elo -7 HP (may post remaining actions since first KO'd green) Spurtz(may post new turn of actions since green is down) Ka'elen Human (green) -29 HP Beezhul -9 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
The woman next to Themolin (red) drops her bow and draws a rapier. She lunges at the newcomer.
Drop; Strike Strike, Melee rapier v Beezhul:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22 Damage, piercing:1d6 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7
Pleased with the result, she strikes again.
Strike, Melee rapier v Beezhul:1d20 + 8 - 4 ⇒ (6) + 8 - 4 = 10 Damage, piercing:1d6 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Three Begins!
PCs in bold may act
Eladithas of Wolfpoint
Ma'elo -7 HP
Spurtz
Ka'elen
Human (green) -9 HP
Beezhul -9 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
Alas, I ended up giving more time than I had intended. I will move us along...
Magnus toils alone for eight hours but fails to produce a finished raft that is seaworthy. He has the beginnings of a serviceable craft. The barrel was clearly made to hold fish rather than enter the water with them.
Father Emil and Redmond have much more success. Thanks to their care, combined with a dose of antiplague, Vurna gains her full color by morning. When she awakes, she begins looking for Flitch, who keeps his door closed. She knocks and asks if he can see her. In response, he coughs. "Um, I might have caught filth fever," he suggests through the door.
"There, there child." Yuleg says to comfort her. "Keep your distance and let him be."
"Oh, I do hope he will be well enough to travel with us." Vurna laments.
"Fortunately, I understand that there are two ships leaving." Yuleg notes, thoughtfully. "There is no need for us to all leave together. Perhaps he can take the other ship."
The dwarven father gives a pleading glance toward the party.
With the clang of first bell, the party is able to set out for the Ministry of Tithes and, despite some traffic, arrives on time for their appointment.
Upon reaching the receptionist, the party is led by a staff member through a sea of bureaucrats tending paperwork. She pauses before a desk covered in several stacks of papers, some nearly toppling from the heavy wooden desk upon which they are perched, and announces, "Your morning appointment, Director Thelomin." She then departs.
From behind the stack of papers, emerges a portly man with spectacles. “I-I understand that y-you’ve made an appointment to s-see me. H-how may I b-be of assistance?” he stammers as he hesitantly rises to his feet.
Na'ilath rushes forward to support his brother, first striding then flying in to strike twice on Baralbus with a focus spell.
As he moves deeper into the warehouse, Na''ialth can see Themolin, who is bound, gagged, and tied to a chair while being guarded by one of the armed women (red).
Barlabus' blurry form makes it difficult for Na'ilath to connect.
Concealment, Flat check:1d20 ⇒ 15 Concealment, Flat check:1d20 ⇒ 13
Yet, the elf manages to remain focused despite the magical interference and his strikes find their target!
Baralbus falls!
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Two Cont'd!
PCs in bold may act
Eladithas of Wolfpoint
Ma'elo -7 HP
Spurtz
Ka'elen
Baralbus -36 HP
Human (green) -9 HP
Beezhul -4 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
Eladithas of Wolfpoint
Ma'elo -7 HP (corrected; Nimble Dodge)
Spurtz
Ka'elen
Baralbus (blurred)
Human (green) -9 HP
Beezhul -4 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
As Eladithas calls for divine assistance, Ma'elo and Spurtz each one of the women (green).
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Two Cont'd!
PCs in bold may act
Eladithas of Wolfpoint
Ma'elo (corrected; Nimble Dodge)
Spurtz
Ka'elen
Voice(?) (Casting a spell and...?)
Human (green) -9 HP
Beezhul -4 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
Eladithas of Wolfpoint Ma'elo -5 HP
Human (yellow) -23 HP Spurtz
Ka'elen
Voice(?) (Casting a spell and...?)
Human (green)
Beezhul -4 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
Failing to fell her foe, the woman retreats deeper into the warehouse.
Stride
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round Two Begins!
PCs in bold may act
Eladithas of Wolfpoint (Delay) Ma'elo -5 HP
Human (yellow) -23 HP Spurtz
Ka'elen
Voice(?) (Casting a spell and...?)
Human (green)
Beezhul -4 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
Beezhul jumps in front of the bolt, absorbing some of it's impact into her armor with a clever shoulder roll, protecting her ally!
Beezhul's reaction was triggered before Ka'elen moved, so Beezhul could not Step into spot indicated. I have adjusted Beezhul's token to an adjacent square on the Map.
As Spurtz approaches the enemy, Ka'elen engages. One of the women (yellow) deftly avoids his first lunge, but she fails to avoid a second.
"Visitors, eh?" A voice cries out from the east of the warehouse. The speaker, his voice somewhat familiar, is obscured by crates. "Who knew you had any friends, old man?"
The question goes unanswered and is instead followed by a muttering of arcane phrases.
Cornered, one of the women (green) drops her bow and draws her rapier. She thrusts at the elf before her.
Eladithas of Wolfpoint(Delay)
Ma'elo -5 HP
Human (yellow) -6 HP
Spurtz
Ka'elen
Voice(?) (Casting a spell and...?)
Human (green)
Beezhul -4 HP
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
The dwarf sighs and steps forward. "I'd like ta get a whiff o' tha' before we're handin' ye any coin, got ta make sure we en't had any more misunderstandin's."
Modra concludes that the "shop keeper" is eager to make some coin and that the vial of antiplague is what it is claimed to be.
Modra Boeske wrote:
I haven't run into this "the party is buying stuff for an NPC" in a PFS scenario before now. Would we all mark off an equal share of the cost (5sp if split 6 ways) for the antiplague in the chronicle after completion? For the sake of the narrative flowing smoothly, Modra has sufficient coin in his purse to cover the up-front cost, once he's sure it really is antiplague.
While roleplaying wise the effect of the purchase of the antiplague is arguably "the party is buying stuff for an NPC", mechanically it is treated the same as PC making a purchase for him or herself or the party as a whole because administering the antiplague effectively lowers the DC of the skill check required to succeed at the challenge (getting Vurna well enough for her father to agree for them to travel). A single PC may pay the cost alone or the party can agree to split it in some way among themselves. Alternatively, the party could agree to forego purchasing it and simply rely on their own skills and abilities to solve the challenge. In that sense, it is no different than a choice by a PC to purchase a potion of disguise in preparation for an encounter requiring a Deception check to Impersonate or an oil of potency in preparation of a combat encounter.
It appears that the party wishes to go through with the purchase of antiplague, but that may change in light of my explanation above. Therefore, if the party wishes to go through the purchase, please indicate which PC is paying or how the funds will be covered and I will make the adjustments on the Chronicle Sheets at the conclusion of the adventure. Otherwise, if the party wishes to forego the antiplague and rely on Father Emil's check with Aid, let me know. Once I have a clear response, I will resolve the check.
Those who are not engaged in Medicine checks or Aids, thereto, may post what they are doing during curfew hours (presumably in addition to an 8 hour rest, but if you forego that, let me know). Also, please make any correspondence checks (such as possibly Crafting, which has been suggested). These are not secret checks.
Once I the above has been posted (or Monday, whichever I notice first), I will resolve any checks and move to the next encounter, which is an appointed meeting the following morning at the Ministry of Tithes.
As he rushes, the shadows flow into his hands and congeal into the form of daggers. He quickly attempts to slice the shortbow wielder.
The armed woman (green) readily avoids the elf's blade.
BOTTING Eladithas - No post in 48+ hours
Eladithas pauses to take in the situation.
Delay
Emerging from behind another stack of crates, a third woman (yellow) approaches with a bow and fires two shots toward Ka'elen. Due to her training, she is able to catch the elf off-guard!
Stride; Ranged Strike x2 Ranged Strike, shortbow v. Ka'elen, off-guard:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10 Damage, piercing + precision for Sneak Attack:1d6 + 1d6 ⇒ (6) + (5) = 11 Ranged Strike, shortbow v. Ka'elen, off-guard:1d20 + 8 - 4 ⇒ (13) + 8 - 4 = 17 Damage, piercing + precision for Sneak Attack:1d6 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + (3) = 6
One arrow appears ready to pierce the fighter's armor, but Beezhul intervenes!
May Step due to Intercept Attack
The woman is initially surprised that the arrow did not pierce its intended target, but is visibly pleased that she hit someone.
"We have visitors!" She calls out and her voice echoes off the nearby crates, walls, and ceiling overhead.
WAREHOUSE AMBUSH! - Round One Cont'd!
PCs in bold may act
Eladithas of Wolfpoint(Delay)
Ma'elo
Human (yellow)
Spurtz
Ka'elen
?
Human (green)
Beezhul -4 HP (May Step only)
Nai'ilath
Human (red)
